Spot Baldness

Spot baldness (Alopecia Areata) is a type of hair loss. Usually occurs when immune system attacks hair follicles erroneously. Experts do not know the cause yet. However, the damage is not permanent. Spot baldness is usually observed in people younger than 20. However, it can possibly be observed in adults and children. Regardless of sex, it is observed that both men and women have equal rate of spot baldness problem.

Spot baldness (Alopecia Areata), usually begins as sets of hair loss that consist of small and round bald patches. In some cases, baldness is not observed. However, patches of thinned hair can be seen. Rarely, total baldness and total body hair loss can be diagnosed.

People who experience this type of hair loss usually observe hair growth in few months. However, if precaution is not taken for healthy areas, hair loss proceeds.

For hair loss in patches, hair growth is usually expected in 6 months to a year. In the context of color or structure, the new hair won’t be any different than existing hair. However, there is 10% possibility that hair won’t regrow. If you have at least one reason listed below, you may experience permanent hair loss;

If there is baldness problem in the family history. If you have autoimmune disease. If you have tendency the allergy. If you are experiencing hair loss problem for a long time. If you have a any kind of change in the color, structure or shape of your nails and toes, you should certainly consult a dermatologist and take precaution against hair loss.

How to diagnose spot baldness?

Spot baldness can be diagnosed by dermatologist’s examination, by checking the patient’s medical history and by dermoscopy. Your doctor is going to decide by asking you questions on hair loss and by examining the patches of hair loss.

If the cause is not clear after the examination, your doctor might ask for additional tests. These tests are;

Hair Analysis: Your dermatologist will examine samples taken from your scalp through a microscope or dermoscopy. Sometimes examination can be proceeded by taking sample from the scalp.

Blood tests: Other than special tests required, your dermatologist may ask for tests for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

The most efficient treatment for spot baldness in adults is the injection of corticosteroids into the scalp, once in every 4-6 weeks. Researches indicate that this treatment is the most efficient treatment for regrowing hair.

For children and some affected people, topical corticosteroids can do the treatment. Minoxidil (Rogaine) can be used with topical corticosteroids.